As the Middle East faces heightened instability, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, speaking at the 20th Manama Dialogue in Bahrain on Sunday, shed light on the challenges facing the Middle East, particularly in the wake of the swiftly changing situation in Syria, where rebels have toppled the Bashar al-Assad regime.
At the 20th IISS Manama Dialogue panel on ‘Whither Regional Strategic Cooperation’ alongside FM Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani of and NSA Tomáš Pojar of
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— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 8, 2024
Referring to the ongoing turmoil in the region, Jaishankar remarked, “There are challenges from Gaza to Lebanon to Syria.” The Manama Dialogue, a leading forum for discussing security and prosperity in the Middle East, is themed “Middle East leadership in shaping regional prosperity and security” this year.
Addressing the gathering, Jaishankar emphasized India’s unique position in West Asia, highlighting its diplomatic efforts to mediate and de-escalate conflicts. “We are one country that has the ability to speak to both Israel and Iran,” Jaishankar said.
Jaishankar’s participation in the Manama Dialogue marks the conclusion of his four-day, two-nation tour, which included a visit to Qatar. During his Bahrain visit, the minister will co-chair the 4th India-Bahrain High Joint Commission (HJC) alongside his Bahraini counterpart, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. The meeting will review the bilateral relationship between the two countries and explore ways to strengthen cooperation across various sectors.
Earlier in Qatar, Jaishankar participated in the Doha Forum, joining a panel discussion on “Conflict resolution in a new era.” The minister also held discussions with Qatari leadership and leaders from other nations, reinforcing India’s role as a constructive partner in addressing global conflicts.
